Best Glasgow Rangers Players of All Time: A Comprehensive List
Glasgow Rangers Football Club is one of the most successful clubs in Scottish football history, with a rich tradition of producing some of the best players in the game. Over the years, Rangers have been home to some of the most legendary strikers, iconic midfielders, dominant defenders, and influential goalkeepers in the sport. These players have helped the club win numerous domestic and European titles, cementing their place in the club’s history.
The list of the best Glasgow Rangers players of all time is long and impressive, with each player contributing in their own unique way to the club’s success. From the legendary strikers like Ally McCoist, who scored over 350 goals for the club, to the iconic midfielders like Brian Laudrup, who dazzled fans with his skill and creativity, Rangers have had some of the most talented players in the game. The club’s dominant defenders like Richard Gough and Terry Butcher have been instrumental in keeping the opposition at bay, while influential goalkeepers like Andy Goram and Stefan Klos have made match-winning saves time and again.
With such a rich history, it’s no surprise that Rangers have had some of the best players in the game. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most outstanding players who have played for the club over the years. We will explore their contributions to the team, their achievements, and their impact on the club’s success.
Key Takeaways
- Glasgow Rangers Football Club has produced some of the most legendary strikers, iconic midfielders, dominant defenders, and influential goalkeepers in the sport.
- The list of the best Glasgow Rangers players of all time includes players like Ally McCoist, Brian Laudrup, Richard Gough, Terry Butcher, Andy Goram, and Stefan Klos.
- These players have made significant contributions to the club’s success, helping Rangers win numerous domestic and European titles over the years.
Legendary Strikers
When it comes to Glasgow Rangers, the club has a rich history of legendary strikers who have graced the pitch at Ibrox. Two of the most iconic names that spring to mind are Ally McCoist and Mark Hateley.
Ally McCoist
Ally McCoist is a name synonymous with Rangers Football Club. He is the club’s all-time leading scorer with an incredible 355 goals in 581 appearances. McCoist was a prolific striker who had a natural ability to find the back of the net. He won numerous trophies during his time at Rangers, including 10 Scottish Premier League titles, 9 Scottish Cups, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup.
McCoist was not just a goal scorer, he was also a leader on and off the pitch. His passion for the club and his desire to win was infectious, and he inspired his teammates to give their all in every game. McCoist’s legacy at Rangers is one of greatness, and he will forever be remembered as one of the club’s greatest ever players.
Mark Hateley
Mark Hateley was another striker who left a lasting impression on the Rangers faithful. He joined the club in 1990 and went on to score 112 goals in 223 appearances. Hateley was a physical presence on the pitch, and his aerial ability made him a real threat in the box. He won 3 Scottish Premier League titles and 3 Scottish Cups during his time at Rangers.
Hateley was not just a goal scorer, he was also a team player who worked tirelessly for the cause. His work rate and determination were second to none, and he was a real fan favorite. Hateley’s legacy at Rangers is one of hard work and dedication, and he will forever be remembered as one of the club’s greatest ever strikers.
In conclusion, Glasgow Rangers has a rich history of legendary strikers, and Ally McCoist and Mark Hateley are two names that will forever be etched in the club’s history books. Their goal-scoring exploits and leadership qualities made them true icons of the club, and they will always be remembered with great fondness by the Rangers faithful.
Iconic Midfielders
Glasgow Rangers has had some of the most talented midfielders in the history of Scottish football. Here are two of the most iconic midfielders to have ever played for the club.
Paul Gascoigne
Paul Gascoigne, also known as “Gazza,” is one of the most celebrated midfielders in the history of Glasgow Rangers. He joined the club in 1995 and played for three seasons, scoring 39 goals in 103 appearances. Gascoigne’s time at Rangers was marked by his impressive performances in the Scottish League Cup and Scottish Cup finals, which helped the club win both trophies in the 1995-96 season.
Gascoigne’s playing style was characterized by his exceptional ball control, creativity, and vision. He was also known for his ability to score goals from long range and set up his teammates with pinpoint passes. Gascoigne’s talent and charisma made him a fan favorite at Rangers, and he is still revered by the club’s supporters to this day.
Barry Ferguson
Barry Ferguson is another legendary midfielder who played for Glasgow Rangers. He joined the club in 1998 and went on to make 431 appearances, scoring 60 goals. Ferguson was known for his leadership skills and was named the club captain in 2003. He led Rangers to a number of domestic titles, including five Scottish Premier League titles and five Scottish Cups.
Ferguson’s playing style was characterized by his tenacity, work rate, and ability to read the game. He was also a skilled passer of the ball and had an eye for goal. Ferguson’s leadership and commitment to the club made him a fan favorite at Rangers, and he is regarded as one of the greatest captains in the history of the club.
Overall, Paul Gascoigne and Barry Ferguson are two of the most iconic midfielders to have ever played for Glasgow Rangers. Their talent, leadership, and commitment to the club have made them legends in the eyes of the club’s supporters.
Dominant Defenders
When it comes to Glasgow Rangers, they have had some of the best defenders in the history of football. These players were known for their exceptional skills and their ability to dominate the opposition. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the most dominant defenders to ever play for Glasgow Rangers: Richard Gough and Terry Butcher.
Richard Gough
Richard Gough is widely regarded as one of the best defenders to ever play for Glasgow Rangers. He played for the club from 1987 to 1997 and during this time, he won nine league titles, three Scottish Cups, and one League Cup. Gough was known for his excellent positioning, his ability to read the game, and his strong tackling. He was also a great leader and captained the team during his time at the club.
Terry Butcher
Terry Butcher is another legendary defender who played for Glasgow Rangers. He played for the club from 1986 to 1990 and during this time, he won three league titles, one Scottish Cup, and one League Cup. Butcher was known for his strength, his aerial ability, and his tough tackling. He was also a great leader and captained the team during his time at the club.
Both Gough and Butcher were instrumental in Glasgow Rangers’ success during the late 80s and early 90s. They formed a formidable partnership in the heart of the defense and were a nightmare for opposition strikers. Their contributions to the club will never be forgotten, and they will always be remembered as two of the greatest defenders to ever play for Glasgow Rangers.
Influential Goalkeepers
Goalkeepers are a crucial part of any football team, and Rangers FC has had its fair share of great ones over the years. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the most influential goalkeepers in the club’s history.
Andy Goram
Andy Goram is arguably one of the best goalkeepers to ever play for Rangers FC. He joined the club in 1991 and quickly established himself as a fan favorite. Goram was known for his agility, quick reflexes, and excellent shot-stopping abilities. He played a crucial role in the club’s success during the 1990s, helping them win nine league titles, three Scottish Cups, and one League Cup.
Goram was also a regular for the Scottish national team, earning 43 caps between 1985 and 1998. He was part of the squad that played in the 1990 and 1998 World Cups, and he was named Scotland’s Player of the Year twice.
Despite his success on the pitch, Goram’s time at Rangers was not without controversy. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1991, and his condition led to several high-profile incidents over the years. However, he remained a beloved figure at the club and is still remembered as one of Rangers’ greatest ever goalkeepers.
Overall, Andy Goram’s contributions to Rangers FC cannot be overstated. He was a key player during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, and his talent and dedication made him a true legend of the game.
Captains Through the Ages
Throughout its illustrious history, Glasgow Rangers has had several legendary captains who have led the team to numerous domestic and international titles. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the most iconic captains in the club’s history, John Greig and David Weir.
John Greig
John Greig is widely regarded as the greatest captain in Rangers history. He played for the club for 19 years, from 1960 to 1978, and was the club’s longest-serving captain, leading the team to numerous domestic and European titles. Greig was a versatile player who could play in various positions, but he was most effective as a central defender.
Under Greig’s captaincy, Rangers won the Scottish League title six times, the Scottish Cup five times, and the League Cup six times. He also led the team to the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and the European Cup final in 1972. Greig’s leadership skills and his ability to inspire his teammates were instrumental in Rangers’ success during his time at the club.
David Weir
David Weir was another legendary captain who led Rangers to success in the early 2010s. Weir joined Rangers in 2007 and was immediately appointed as the team’s captain. He was a commanding presence at the heart of the defense and was known for his excellent reading of the game and his ability to organize the backline.
Under Weir’s captaincy, Rangers won three consecutive Scottish League titles from 2009 to 2011 and reached the UEFA Europa League final in 2008. Weir’s leadership skills and his calmness under pressure were crucial in Rangers’ success during his time at the club.
In conclusion, John Greig and David Weir are two of the most iconic captains in Rangers history. They both led the team to numerous domestic and international titles and inspired their teammates with their leadership skills and their commitment to the club. Their legacy at Rangers will always be remembered by the fans and the football world.
European Success Stories
Glasgow Rangers is one of the most successful football clubs in Scotland and Europe. The club has a rich history of winning trophies and producing some of the best players in the world. Over the years, Rangers have had many successful campaigns in Europe, winning numerous titles and producing some of the best performances in the history of the game.
Brian Laudrup
One of the most iconic players to have graced the field for Rangers is Brian Laudrup. The Danish winger was signed by Walter Smith in 1994 and immediately made an impact. Laudrup’s first season with Rangers was a huge success, as he helped the club win the domestic treble and reach the final of the UEFA Cup. Laudrup’s performances were so impressive that he was named Scottish Player of the Year in his first season at the club.
Laudrup’s most memorable performance for Rangers came in the 1996-97 UEFA Cup campaign. In the quarter-finals, Rangers faced Italian giants Inter Milan, who were one of the favorites to win the competition. Laudrup was outstanding in both legs of the tie, scoring a goal in the first leg and setting up two goals in the second leg to help Rangers win 3-1 on aggregate.
Gazza
Another player who played a key role in Rangers’ success in Europe was Paul Gascoigne, also known as Gazza. The English midfielder was signed by Rangers in 1995 and quickly became a fan favorite. Gazza’s first season with Rangers was a huge success, as he helped the club win the domestic double and reach the final of the UEFA Cup.
Gazza’s most memorable performance for Rangers came in the semi-finals of the 1995-96 UEFA Cup. Rangers faced Italian giants Fiorentina, who were one of the favorites to win the competition. Gazza was outstanding in both legs of the tie, scoring a goal in the first leg and setting up two goals in the second leg to help Rangers win 4-3 on aggregate.
In conclusion, Glasgow Rangers have had many successful campaigns in Europe, producing some of the best performances in the history of the game. Brian Laudrup and Gazza are two of the most iconic players to have played for Rangers and have left a lasting legacy at the club.
Record Breakers
When it comes to Glasgow Rangers, there have been many players who have left a lasting impact on the club’s history. Some of them have even broken records that still stand to this day. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the players who have made the most appearances and scored the most goals for the club.
Most Appearances
John Greig holds the record for the most appearances in competitive matches for Rangers, with a total of 755 appearances between 1961 and 1978. Greig was a versatile player who could play in both defense and midfield, and he was known for his leadership on and off the pitch. He won numerous trophies with Rangers, including the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1972.
Another player who made a significant number of appearances for Rangers is Sandy Jardine. Jardine played for the club between 1965 and 1982 and made a total of 674 appearances. He was a right-back who was known for his tough tackling and his ability to get forward and contribute to the attack. Jardine won numerous trophies with Rangers, including three Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1972.
Top Scorers
When it comes to the top scorers in Rangers’ history, there are two players who stand out above the rest. Ally McCoist is the club’s all-time leading scorer, with a total of 355 goals between 1983 and 1998. McCoist was a prolific striker who was known for his ability to score goals from all angles and distances. He won numerous trophies with Rangers, including nine Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1992.
The other player who is often mentioned in discussions of Rangers’ top scorers is Derek Johnstone. Johnstone scored a total of 210 goals for the club between 1970 and 1986. He was a versatile player who could play in a number of different positions, but he was primarily a striker who was known for his powerful shots and his ability to score goals in clutch situations. Johnstone won numerous trophies with Rangers, including nine Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1972.
These players have left a lasting legacy at Rangers, and their records are a testament to their skill and dedication to the club. While there have been many great players to wear the Rangers jersey over the years, these record breakers will always hold a special place in the hearts of Rangers fans.
Modern Era Standouts
Over the years, Glasgow Rangers have had numerous talented players grace their ranks. However, some players have stood out more than others, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history. In this section, we will highlight two standout players from the modern era who have made significant contributions to the club’s success.
Steven Davis
Steven Davis is one of the most accomplished players in the history of Glasgow Rangers. The Northern Irish midfielder joined the club in 2008 and spent four years at Ibrox, winning three Scottish Premier League (SPL) titles, two Scottish Cups, and three Scottish League Cups. Davis was a consistent performer for the Gers during his time at the club, displaying excellent passing ability, vision, and work rate.
After leaving Rangers in 2012, Davis had spells at Southampton and Aston Villa before returning to Ibrox in 2019. Since his return, the 37-year-old has been a crucial player for the Gers, helping them win the 2020/21 SPL title and reach the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League. Davis’ experience, leadership, and quality on the ball make him an invaluable asset to the current Rangers team.
James Tavernier
James Tavernier is another modern-era standout for Glasgow Rangers. The English right-back joined the club in 2015 and has since established himself as one of the best players in his position in Scottish football. Tavernier is known for his attacking prowess, having scored over 60 goals for the Gers in all competitions.
In addition to his goalscoring exploits, Tavernier is an excellent crosser of the ball and a reliable defender. He has won numerous individual awards during his time at Rangers, including the 2019/20 SPL Player of the Season and the 2020/21 SPL Top Goalscorer. Tavernier’s leadership qualities were also recognized when he was named club captain in 2018.
Overall, Steven Davis and James Tavernier are two of the best players to have played for Glasgow Rangers in recent times. Their contributions to the club’s success cannot be overstated, and they continue to be vital players for the Gers.
Hall of Fame Inductees
Throughout its history, Glasgow Rangers FC has been home to some of the best football players in the world. These players have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the club and have been inducted into the Rangers Hall of Fame.
The criteria for induction into the Hall of Fame are based on five essential attributes, including service to the club, number of games played, honours won with Rangers, international caps won while at Rangers, and exceptional abilities.
Some of the notable inductees into the Rangers Hall of Fame include Jorg Albertz, who played for the club from 1996 to 2001 and was known for his powerful left foot and free-kick abilities. Lorenzo Amoruso, who played for the club from 1997 to 2003, was a key player in the team’s success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Sandy Archibald, who played for the club from 1917 to 1934, was a prolific goal scorer and helped the club win multiple league titles.
Other notable inductees include Jim Baxter, who played for the club in the 1960s and was known for his skill and creativity on the ball. Ralph Brand, who played for the club from 1954 to 1965, was a key player in the team that won the Scottish Cup in 1962. Bobby Brown, who played for the club from 1946 to 1956, was a goalkeeper and helped the club win multiple league titles.
The Rangers Hall of Fame is a testament to the club’s rich history and the exceptional players who have played for the club over the years. It is a fitting tribute to the players who have helped make Rangers FC one of the most successful football clubs in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the most legendary Rangers players from the 1970s?
The 1970s were a golden era for Rangers, and the team had several legendary players during that period. John Greig, who captained the team to European Cup Winners’ Cup glory in 1972, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Rangers players of all time. Other notable players from that era include Derek Johnstone, who scored in both the 1972 Cup Winners’ Cup final and the 1978 Scottish Cup final, and Colin Stein, who scored 25 goals in the 1970-71 season.
Which Rangers players have scored the most goals for the club?
Ally McCoist, also known as “Super Ally,” is Rangers’ all-time top scorer with an impressive 355 goals in 581 appearances. Other notable goal scorers include Jim Forrest, who scored 177 goals in 317 appearances, and Derek Johnstone, who scored 210 goals in 546 appearances.
Can you list some of the most notable foreign players in Rangers history?
Rangers have had several notable foreign players throughout their history. Brian Laudrup, a Danish winger who played for Rangers in the 1990s, is widely regarded as one of the greatest foreign players to have ever played for the club. Other notable foreign players include Giovanni van Bronckhorst, a Dutch midfielder who played for Rangers in the early 2000s, and Jorg Albertz, a German midfielder who was known for his powerful left foot.
Who has been inducted into the Rangers Hall of Fame?
The Rangers Hall of Fame was established in 2000 to honor the club’s greatest players, managers, and officials. The first inductee was William Wilton, the club’s first manager. Since then, several other notable figures have been inducted, including players like John Greig, Ally McCoist, and Brian Laudrup, as well as managers like Bill Struth and Walter Smith.
Which players hold the record for being Rangers’ most expensive signings?
Rangers have broken their transfer record several times throughout their history. The current record transfer fee paid by the club is £20 million for Ryan Kent in 2022. Other notable expensive signings include Tore Andre Flo, who was signed for £12 million in 2000, and Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who was signed for £6 million in 1998.
Who are considered the top strikers in Rangers’ illustrious history?
Rangers have had several top strikers throughout their history. Ally McCoist, who is the club’s all-time leading scorer, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Rangers strikers of all time. Other notable strikers include Derek Johnstone, who scored in both the 1972 Cup Winners’ Cup final and the 1978 Scottish Cup final, and Kris Boyd, who scored 138 goals in 192 appearances for the club.
